"BAE Systems has been conducting a planned small explosives testing today which will conclude around 4 p.m. at the Holston Army Ammunition Plant," BAE Systems spokesman Chris Finley said in an email. "During testing, controlled, small-scale detonations may heard in the local community."

According to Justine Barati, the Director of Public and Congressional Affairs for Joint Munitions Command, no workers were in the building at the time of either incident. One employee who was in proximity to the initial fire was transported to Holston Valley Medical Center for observation, Barati said, and out of an overabundance of safety.

During a public meeting last April, BAE Systems and the U.S. Army reported they will continue to pursue installing a so-called “flashing/car bottom furnace” to minimize open burning of waste at HAAP.